FUNERARY CULT TRADITIONS AMONG GEORGIAN JEWS (SECOND HALF OF THE 19TH CENTURY)

Summary

Georgian Jews share a centuries-long history with Georgia, and their community constitutes a significant part of the country’s ethno-cultural diversity. According to Georgian historical sources, their settlement in Georgia dates back to the 6th century BCE. Since then, the Jewish diaspora has become an inseparable component of Georgian society. Georgian Jews were distinguished by their integration into the local environment—adopting the Georgian language and culture—while simultaneously preserving their religious traditions, which became one of the principal factors in maintaining their identity. Particularly noteworthy are the traditions related to the funerary cult, which have always been characterized by their archaic nature and uniqueness, firmly enveloped within a religious framework. Jews actively participated in trade, craftsmanship, and the everyday life of the local community. The history of Georgian Jews arouses significant scholarly interest, as it represents a unique example of how a small ethnic group can preserve its religious and ethnic identity despite long-term historical integration within a host society.